Shingles, metal roofing, clay tiles, and more…oh my! Here are the pros & cons of each roofing material so you can make the right choice for your overhead protector.

Most people give very little time or consideration to roofing material until it’s time for a new roof on their home. At that point, the types of roofing materials and whether to use shingles, metal roofing, clay tiles, and more can feel overwhelming.

Pros & Cons of Asphalt Shingles

More than 70% of US homes are roofed with asphalt shingles; however, that number is declining due to more energy-efficient and durable roofing material.

COST: $3.00-7.00/sq. ft

PROS:

Affordable

Large variety of colors & styles

Good fire protection

Compliment most styles of homes

Long-lasting & durable—can last up to 30 years

Easy to repair

CONS:

Can deteriorate quickly in hot, sunny climates

Can crack under rapid temperature changes

Can develop mold or algae in shady areas

Need to be replaced more frequently than other roofing materials

Least eco-friendly option

Pros & Cons of Wood Shingles & Shakes

Cedar, redwood and cypress shingles and shakes deliver a touch of natural beauty to any roof. What’s the difference? Wood shingles are machine-cut with clean edges. Their slightly more expensive cousin wood shakes are thicker and hand-cut for a more rustic appearance.

COST: $5.00-9.00/sq. ft

PROS:

Natural beauty

Insect-resistant

Moisture-resistant

10-15 year longer lifespan than other roofing materials

Good insulation

Recyclable

CONS:

Prohibited in areas prone to wildfire

Untreated wood requires regular maintenance & cleaning

Can develop moss or algae

Repairs can be costly

Pros & Cons of Metal Roofing

Used in the past for barns and some homes, metal roofing is enjoying a recent resurgence due to a demand for durable eco-friendly roofing.

COST: $5.00-13.00/sq. ft

PROS:

Large variety of colors & styles that can mimic other roofing materials

Controls energy costs with insulation

Quick, cost-efficient installation

Extremely long-lasting & durable—can last up to 100 years

Effectively sheds rain & snow

100% recyclable

CONS:

High initial cost, compared to other roofing materials

Noisy in rain or when hit by falling objects

Can dent easily

More costly to replace

Pros & Cons of Roof Tiles

An ancient option that’s been thoroughly modernized, tiles are available in traditional clay, concrete, and fiber cement (a blend of wood and clay).

COST: $11.00-22.00/sq. ft

PROS:

Pleasing curb appeal

Large variety of colors, textures & styles

Fire-resistant

Insect-resistant

Long-lasting & durable—lasts at least 50 years

Recyclable

Reflects sunlight

CONS:

Heavy, could require additional support

Most expensive roofing option

Very breakable

Repairs tend to be more complicated and expensive

Pros & Cons of Slate

Composite and vinyl slate is expected to last up to 60 years, and some European structures have slate roofs that are centuries old.

COST: $9.00/sq. ft

PROS:

Luxurious looks

Synthetic slate is lightweight yet strong

Low-maintenance

Eco-friendly & recyclable

Durable

CONS:

Improper installation can result in moisture issues

Genuine slate is extremely heavy and can require additional support

Breakable if walked on

Requires specialty contractors

Whether you’re in the marketing for residential or commercial roofing, the material you choose has a lasting impact. If you need help choosing the right roofing material for you, contact IC Roofing today at (513) 372-5393 or info@ic-roofing.com.